Biochemist how-to

How to Purify a Protein

Pure proteins give clean data.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Pure proteins give clean data. In short: express; lyse; run, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Express the protein.

  2. Lyse cells.

  3. Run affinity chromatography.

  4. Run size exclusion.

  5. Check purity on a gel.

  6. Measure concentration.

Safety reminders for biochemists

  • Follow biosafety rules
  • Handle chemicals safely
  • Wear PPE
  • Dispose of waste properly

Hypothesis · Peer review · Grant · Protocol · Replication · Protein: see the full biochemist glossary.

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